Timor-Leste Officially Applies to Join WTO Agreement on Government Procurement to Modernize Public Procurement and Enhance Economic Integration

Timor-Leste has taken a significant step forward in its economic development by officially submitting its application to join the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA 2012). This milestone was announced on June 18, 2025, by Ambassador António da Conceição, Timor-Leste’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, during a meeting of the WTO Committee on Government Procurement.

Joining the GPA is a key part of Timor-Leste’s broader strategy to modernize its public procurement system, enhance transparency, and deepen its integration into the global economy. The GPA is a plurilateral agreement under the WTO framework that aims to open government procurement markets among its members, promoting fair competition and efficiency in public spending. Currently, the GPA includes 22 parties representing 49 WTO members, with several other countries in the process of accession.

In preparation for this application, Timor-Leste organized a national workshop in its capital, Dili, with support from WTO experts, the European Union, and the International Trade Centre (ITC). This workshop brought together key government officials responsible for procurement, helping to build capacity and align national practices with international standards.

The move has been positively received by existing GPA members. Countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, and the European Union have praised Timor-Leste’s commitment and progress, offering their support throughout the accession process. Their backing highlights the importance of Timor-Leste’s efforts to improve governance and economic openness.

Accession to the GPA will provide Timor-Leste with greater access to international government procurement markets, potentially attracting more foreign investment and fostering competition that can lead to better value for public funds. It also signals the country’s dedication to transparency and good governance, which are critical for sustainable development.

This development follows Timor-Leste’s earlier accession to the WTO, marking another step in its journey toward economic modernization and integration. By aligning its procurement policies with global standards, Timor-Leste aims to create a more efficient and transparent public sector that supports economic growth and benefits its citizens.